Did you know? June is Cataract Awareness Month. Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In this blog, we shed light on what cataracts are, their symptoms, available treatments, and the importance of annual eye examinations.

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye, which is normally clear, becomes cloudy or opaque. This clouding obstructs the passage of light, leading to blurred vision and other visual impairments. Cataracts can develop in one or both eyes and are often a natural part of the aging process. While they cannot be prevented, other factors such as genetics, diabetes, smoking, and prolonged exposure to UV rays can also contribute to their formation.

What Are The Symptoms?

The symptoms of cataracts can vary in severity and may develop gradually over time. Some common signs to watch out for include:

• Blurry or hazy vision: Objects may appear fuzzy, and you may experience difficulty reading or recognizing faces.

• Sensitivity to light: Bright lights may cause discomfort or glare, making it challenging to drive at night.

• Colors appearing faded: Colors may lose their vibrancy, making it harder to differentiate between shades.

• Frequent changes in eyeglasses or contact lens prescription: As cataracts progress, your vision may require constant adjustments.

What Treatments Are Available?

While not curable, there are effective treatment options available for cataracts. In the early stages, lifestyle modifications such as using brighter lighting, wearing anti-glare sunglasses, and using magnifying lenses or devices can help improve vision temporarily.

As cataracts progress and begin to interfere with daily life, surgical intervention becomes the most reliable and common treatment.

During the procedure, the clouded lens is surgically removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This outpatient surgery is generally safe and has a high success rate with minimal recovery time.

The Importance of Regular Eye Examinations

Detecting cataracts at an early stage allows for timely intervention, ensuring better treatment outcomes and preserving your vision. Annual eye examinations play a crucial role in detecting and managing cataracts, especially in their early stages. A comprehensive eye exam can assess your overall eye health, including a thorough evaluation for cataracts. Regular eye exams also help identify other eye conditions, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy, which may coexist with cataracts or present similar symptoms.

Schedule An Exam With Kopolow & Girisgen, Doctors Of Optometry

At Kopolow & Girisgen, Doctors of Optometry, our caring doctors are well-versed in cataracts detection and management. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your annual eye exam now below or by texting GLASSES to 21000.